Wednesday, October 11, 2017

Why Runners Run

Why Run? I hear that question a lot. There are thousands of reasons to run. Somehow though, excuses are always there ready to stop you from lacing up your shoes. Today I'm here to share with you some of the reasons why you shouldn't listen to the excuses anymore. Here are some great reasons to start running now.

If you're looking for a way to get in shape that is cheap, it's running. The cost of running is the cost of your running shoes. You can run anywhere, no membership required.

It's healthy. All around. There are a ton of different studies that say that if you run, you'll sleep better, live longer, have lower blood pressure, lose weight and lower the risk of cancer. It also helps protect your bones and strengthens your immune system. (Just to name a few). There's a whole article on this HERE.

Running boosts your mood. Even if you don't feel it while you run, afterward it is pretty easy to notice a difference. Growing up, this was one of my mom's favorite ways to tell me I was in a bad mood, "Jen, maybe you should go for a run." I knew she was telling me I was being sensitive and needed to go get some endorphins pumping. And it worked. Every time. I think for me, it has something to do with running until I am worn out enough not to be so worried about whatever it is bugging me. I also think it has something to do with proving to myself that I can push myself harder than before.

To meet new people. Most of the runners I have met, I met at races. From high school on, every time I run a race, I meet several new people. Some of which I see at multiple races. It's a really great way to make new friends.

To boost your memory. My mom likes to tell people that I have a really good memory. I do think my memory is pretty sharp and I like to credit that to running since I was 9.Sure there are crossword puzzles and sudoku. You could learn a new language, to keep your mind sharp. But there have been studies that show that physical activity is more important in order to keep your mind from declining.

To help relieve your stresses and helps with other mental health issues. It seems to me that any time I get back from a run, I either have the answer to a problem that was stressing me out, or I feel like I'm ready to sit down and figure out whatever the problem is. Sometimes the answers don't come to me right off, but a lot of times it helps me think more clearly. My anxiety levels are a little lower, my depression tapers off. And I just function better mentally overall after a run.

Gives you something to work towards. I don't know about you, but when I don't have some goal to pursue, I start to get a little stir crazy. I love the feeling of progression in my life. And running helps me feel that. When I meet a goal of a certain mileage, time, or running a race, I feel that accomplishment. And It drives me to set more goals and to push myself further.

It raises your self-esteem. When you meet goals, when you see what you can accomplish, it gives your ego a boost. Not to mention the fact that your body starts looking fantastic. Your self-esteem and your confidence is higher when you're active.

There are many more reasons, there are no excuses. That's why, Go run.

What is your favorite thing about running?Why did you start running in the first place?

4 comments:

I use running to boost my mood. It's a great way to clear the mind, just concentrate on your feet and movement. It's kind of like meditation for me. Good post, all great reasons to get out the door and start running :)

I use running that way too. Even on the runs that seem to be so long and slow. Where you feel like you can't pick your legs up faster. Those runs still make you feel better afterwords. Thanks for reading!